James W. Knapp

He was born September 23, 1935 in Cortland, NY, the son of Howard and Evelyn Peck Knapp.

His early years were spent in Cortland, where he was a graduate of Cortland High School in 1955.

He had taken Medical Aid training for Civil Defense in 1953, so when he joined the Army, he was classified as a Medic. He was honorably discharged from the service in Dec. 1962.

He held several different jobs for a few years, including being an ambulance driver, and then joined General Electric in Schenectady as an electrician. He held this position until his retirement.

Jim loved music and played the guitar. He often requested of whomever was playing a piano, that his favorite hymn, “It Is Well With My Soul,” be played. He was an avid reader and was known to quote Shakespeare with very little urging. He was liked by all who knew him and he gave the best hugs!

Before arthritis slowed him down considerably, he spent as much time as he could at his camp in the Adirondacks, often driving up there on his motorcycle.

He is survived by his wife, Elouise Shuman Knapp, Beaver Meadow, to whom he was married for nearly eight years. They had been friends for all their lives, their parents having been close as well.

Also surviving are his son, Jason Knapp (Keleigh) of E. Worcester, NY and his daughter, Michelle Gifford of So. Carolina. There are numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom meant so much to him.

Survivors include his step-children, whom he has known all their lives: Vicki Shuman of So. Otselic, Peggy Huntley of So. Otselic, Mike Shuman of Smyrna, and Jim Shuman of Beaver Meadow.

He had several cousins and was close to Barbara Brewster Tefft, with whom he kept in touch.

Jim was predeceased by his wife, Leah Ives Knapp, and his daughter, Stacey Bearcraft.

Due to COVID concerns, there will be no calling hours or funeral at this time. A graveside service and interment will be held at a later date in Valley View Cemetery, So. Otselic.

Arrangements are entrusted to R.J. Fahy Funeral Home, Norwich, NY